New test enables more targeted therapy for colorectal cancer

Since 1 December, it has been possible for the first time in Germany to determine the mutation status of intestinal tumors using a simple blood sample. This reports the University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum in a recent press release.
Accordingly, the Knappschaftskrankenhaus in this country is the first center of competence, which uses the newly developed test in the treatment of colorectal cancer. This will enable more patients to receive individually tailored therapy in the future.

New colon cancer test. Image: absolutimages - fotolia

Test uses a blood sample to determine the mutation status of intestinal tumors
The University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum will be the first institution nationwide to use a newly developed RAS biomarker test for the treatment of colorectal cancer. As the clinic reports, it is through this possible to detect by means of a simple blood sample, to what extent a mutation is present in the tumors. According to the doctors around Prof. Wolff Schmiegel, the new procedure is promising, since it can be used quickly and easily and allows more patients than before to provide individualized, "tailor-made" therapy. The relevance for the targeted treatment of patients had already been confirmed in a study of the Ruhr University, the statement said.

The so-called "OnkoBEAM test" was therefore developed by the company Sysmex Inostics, the validation study was then carried out as part of the Science Program of the State Funding P.U.R.E. (Protein Research Unit Ruhr within Europe). Now, the blood-based test is to be used in patients with advanced bowel cancer, reports the miners' hospital. The test indicates the mutation status of the so-called "RAS gene", which plays a central role in the control of cancer cell growth and is therefore crucial for the selection of therapy. Because the test is a non-invasive procedure, it may serve as a "useful adjunct to traditional tissue biopsies or surgical procedures," the report said.

Early indication of change of therapy possible
As the clinic further reports, OnkoBEAM could enable non-invasive monitoring of the RAS mutation status during ongoing therapy. Initial study results have already shown that mutations of the RAS gene, especially in the context of treatment with antibodies against the so-called "Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor" (EGFR for short) could occur again. Accordingly, the new test could additionally contribute to the therapy being able to be adapted or changed at an early stage in the case of an altered tumor profile. This is currently being further reviewed.

"This will allow us to consider effective antibody therapy against EGFR in patients who have not previously been able to determine RAS mutation status due to lack of or insufficient tissue material," explains Drs. Alexander Baraniskin from the University Hospital Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum. (No)